- 2 Frassetto Way - Lincoln Park, NJ 07035
The Peter Benchley Collection: Jaws, A Life of Writing, A Legacy of Stories
Lot 286:
Description
Group of four religious items consisting of three crucifix pendants and one adjustable band ring. The pieces are constructed of cast brass and bronze with varying degrees of gold plating. The largest crucifix features ornate foliate openwork terminals and a central figure of Christ in high relief. The matching pair of smaller crucifixes are rectangular in form with a cast Corpus on the obverse above a skull and crossbones. One is suspended from a gold-plated curb link chain with a lobster claw clasp. The verso of these pendants features a central relief of the Virgin Mary in prayer. The band ring is an adjustable bypass style with embossed floral and scrolling foliate decoration on the exterior. The smaller pendants are inscribed with INRI on the obverse and VITAM PRAESTA PURAM and MARIA on the verso.
From the personal collection of Peter Benchley (American, 1940–2006), acclaimed author of Jaws, accomplished diver, and prominent advocate for ocean and shark conservation.
Condition report:
The largest crucifix has a broken left arm currently secured with a black cord. There is significant orange adhesive residue on the verso of the large cross. All metal components exhibit surface wear, heavy patina, and oxidation consistent with age. The embossed details on the ring are softened from use. The pendants show varying levels of plating loss and tarnish.
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